Overview & Reviews

With a few well-established vehicles dominating the midsize sedan segment, and numerous likable competitors trying to unseat them, it's tough for any particular vehicle to stand out. But the Mazda 6 has often offered something most competitors don't: charisma.

While just about any car in this segment will get the job done, the Mazda 6 manages to engage the driver in the process. This was particularly true of the first-generation 6, which had a relatively compact, European-size footprint and sporty suspension tuning that gave the car a remarkably nimble feel. For the second- and third-generation 6, Mazda enlarged the dimensions but retained much of the original model's handling panache. Whichever vintage you choose, the Mazda 6 is a solid choice as a midsize sedan.

Current Mazda 6
The Mazda 6 midsize sedan comes standard with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder that produces 184 horsepower and 185 pound-feet of torque. Two transmissions are available: a six speed manual or a six-speed automatic (with shift paddles on the steering wheel).

Sport, Touring and Grand Touring are the three trim levels for the current Mazda 6. Standard equipment on the base Sport with the manual transmission includes a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, air-conditioning, cruise control, full power accessories, a 60/40-split rear seat and a six-speaker sound system. The automatic transmission-equipped Sport gets Bluetooth, an infotainment touchscreen and a rearview camera.

Stepping up to the Touring adds items such as keyless ignition and entry, blind-spot monitoring, dual-zone climate control and a power-adjustable driver seat. Options for the Touring include automatic headlights, a sunroof, an upgraded sound system, navigation and a frontal collision mitigation system. The Grand Touring gets all the standard and optional features from the Touring, plus bi-xenon headlights, foglights, leather upholstery and heated front seats. Notable options for the Grand Touring include adaptive cruise control and the i-Eloop system that improves fuel economy by 2-3 mpg.

Visually, the 6 is no wallflower, with a distinctive face and a sleek profile that stands out in a crowd. In terms of practicality, the Mazda 6 also stacks up well against class leaders such as the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry with regard to passenger space and cargo volume. Moreover, most midsize sedans can't match the Mazda's entertaining character on twisty back roads. The car's main downsides are an electronic interface that's a little behind the times and a ride quality that some drivers might deem a tad too stiff.

Used Mazda 6 Models
The newest, third-generation Mazda 6 appeared for 2014. Compared to the previous-generation model, the latest 6 differentiates itself with sleeker styling, higher fuel economy and added safety features. Mazda hasn't made any major changes since.

The second-generation Mazda 6 debuted for the 2009 model year and was produced through 2013. There were two available engines: a 2.5-liter four-cylinder with 170 hp and 167 lb-ft of torque or a 3.7-liter V6 that put out 272 hp and 269 lb-ft. The four-cylinder was paired with either a six-speed manual transmission or a five-speed automatic, while the V6 was only available with a six-speed automatic.

In its second generation, the 6 was available in five trim levels: i Sport, i Touring, i Touring Plus, i Grand Touring and s Grand Touring. Models with the "i" prefix come with the four-cylinder engine, while those with the "s"prefix come with the V6. Base models were respectably equipped, while higher trim levels came with such niceties as a sunroof, Bluetooth, dual-zone automatic climate control and an audible blind-spot monitoring system. Other notable options included xenon headlights, keyless ignition and entry, satellite radio and a navigation system.

As with other Mazda 6 models, we appreciated this generation's sporty handling. It was also pretty practical thanks to a roomy interior and a big trunk. On the downside, though, fuel economy wasn't the best in the segment and interior materials were lackluster. In its final couple years, this 6 also seemed increasingly outdated compared to newer rivals from Hyundai, Nissan and Toyota. But overall we think it's still worth considering as a used family sedan.

Launched for the 2003 model year and produced through 2008, the first-generation Mazda 6 was initially available only as a sedan, while a four-door hatchback and a wagon joined the lineup from 2004-'07. There were two basic trim levels: i and s. The Mazda 6 i was powered by a 160-hp four-cylinder engine mated to either a manual or an automatic transmission. The s came with a 220-hp 3.0-liter V6 -- also available with a manual transmission or an automatic.

The Mazdaspeed 6 was a turbocharged, all-wheel-drive variant of the Mazda 6 sedan that was only offered in 2006 and '07. Boasting 278 hp, a six-speed manual transmission and sports-car-like handling, this European-style sedan delivered great driving excitement. As a used car, it's a compelling package for those with a need for speed, not to mention all-wheel-drive traction.

With power accessories, cruise control and pleasant cloth upholstery, even base models were reasonably well equipped. Optional features included a rear spoiler, foglights, leather seating, a power sunroof and an upgraded audio system with a CD changer.

We like the original Mazda 6 for its edgy, handsome design and stylish interior. Even more impressive were its communicative steering and tight suspension. Both the hatchback and wagon were fun-to-drive and sensible alternatives to other sedans and even SUVs. On the downside, the first-gen Mazda 6's interior quality was lacking, and the sedan was relatively short on passenger space. Moreover, the V6 lacked the punch of rival uplevel motors.

There were a few changes made to the first-generation Mazda 6 over the years. In 2005, a six-speed automatic replaced the five-speed unit on V6 models. For 2006, four-cylinder cars received an upgraded five-speed automatic in place of the old four-speed, and all Mazda 6 models were treated to minor styling updates. The 2006 and '07 models benefited from additional safety features being made standard.

User Reviews:

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  Want to buy another one - 2003 Mazda Mazda6
  By Brian Lenharth - July 7 - 8:06 pm

  I bought my Mazda with 32000 miles on it and drove it everywhere. Havent had any issues, set of tires, brakes, and oil changes, very worry free car. I will probably buy another 6 or maybe a 3, but either way, Im sold on Mazdas brand all around.

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  My third- and best- Mazda purchase! - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
  By Matt in St. Louis - July 6 - 3:33 am

  Ive just had my Onyx Black 6i for a few days, but I am very impressed. I cannot opine about the long-term reliability, but so far I am very pleased with the build quality, fit and finish, performance, fuel economy, etc. This is the third Mazda for my wife and I. This car replaced a 2003 Protege ES, which replaced a 1999 Protege ES. Both Proteges were absolutely bulletproof- all we had to do was change the oil, fill the gas tank, and follow the maintenance suggestions. Those two cars combined gave us nearly 130,000 trouble-free miles, so I have high expectations for our new Mazda6. We werent really in the market for a new car, but Mazdas incentives were too good to pass up.

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  Zoom Zoom - 2003 Mazda Mazda6
  By Zoom Zoom - July 4 - 2:00 am

  This may be one of the best deals on the market, if not the best. The 6s handles like a dream. Its a sports car is a sedans body. The ergonomics of the interior are very pleasant. There is plenty of room in the back seats for adults. when you give this car some gas it definetly goes zoom zoom. Third gear in the 6 is orgasmic--this is when you truly feel the acceleration and power of this car. The 6s has a wonderfully smooth ride and so smooth that you fail to realize how fast youre going unless you look at the speedomoter. Highly recommend this car over the camry and accord. Its the best bang for your buck hands down!!!

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  Almost Bought One - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
  By gsemike - July 4 - 2:00 am

  I agonized over my Altima vs. 6 decision last March and ended up with the Alt. Just recently, I rented for a 6 and this convinced me that I made the right choice. The 6 is nice and sporty, but the Altima is more handsome and just all around nicer to drive. I didnt like the 6s seats back then and I still dont.

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  Flawless - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
  By zoom6i - June 27 - 2:00 am

  You cant go wrong with this car. Ive driven it 10,600 miles already with no problems, or defects. Comes with standard stuff on it that costs extra on BMWs and Mercedes. Dollar for dollar the best car out there. The fact that its stunningly beautiful doesnt hurt either. It gets compliments everywhere I take it. Handles like a sports car, but theres no harshness on this ride. Id recommend it to anyone looking for a reliable, gorgeous, and sporty car that feels a lot more expensive than it is.

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  ZOOM ZOOM - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
  By NICUnurse78 - June 27 - 2:00 am

  I LOVE THIS CAR!! It is beyond fun to drive, not to mention easy on the eyes. Fuel economy not too bad for a V6, and the power is phenomenal. I dont regret my decision to buy the Mazda over the Accord. I would definitely do it again.

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  HUGE HIT WITH THE 6!! - 2004 Mazda Mazda6
  By luckey13 - June 27 - 2:00 am

  Just picked up my 6S, 5 speed, fully loaded in silver and this car literally has it all! My previously owned BMW 330i(with sport package as well) has nothing on this car(just a higher price and a name!), no kidding! This Mazda is ALL you could want in a car without raping your pockets! I have had more fun in this car in just 3 days than I had in my bimmer in 3 years! Just as fast, and the mazda has a hell of alot more available options than the bimmer did, and all for about 12k less! I got mine fully loaded for 23K!! It is all you could want in a car, very sporty, good quickness, handling is great and it has room for just about everything!!

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  Fun to Drive - 2006 Mazda Mazda6
  By Catherine - June 22 - 7:40 pm

  Car is fun to drive, plenty of power, brakes are right there, handling fun to corner with, and sluggish start but kicks right in. I like the manual transmission option. Front seats and trunk is spacious. Easy to get in and out of the car. Gas mileage is exactly as quoted, as long as you dont drive it with heavy foot. Doesnt have OEM mudflaps for it. Steering wheel has plenty of adjustment, up, down, in, and out.

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  Pleasant Surprise - 2009 Mazda Mazda6
  By Curtis789 - June 18 - 1:13 am

  This is my first Japanese car. I am pleasantly surprised with the performance of this 4-cyl sedan. The 5-speed tranny is the best designed auto Ive ever owned, getting the most out of the available power. For city or mixed use, get the 4-cyl. Full load or 100% highway, you may want to consider the 6-cyl. I did not drive the 6 speed auto tranny. Excellent design and build quality. Im a small guy and Im still searching around for the seat position that will match the comfort of my old Chrysler 300M, but the support is better in the Mazda. In many circumstances, the Mazda is faster, e.g., starting from red lights.

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  Another Zoom-Zoom - 2007 Mazda Mazda6
  By Dr. J. - June 17 - 3:20 am

  Bought this car when we gave my wifes 2002 Protege 5 to my granddaughter. My wife loved the 2002, so it was natural to stay with Mazda. The car is extremely fun to drive, and the few times weve had it on the highway, we averaged over 33 miles to the gallon. Weve had absolutely no problems whatsoever. In fact, I traded a 2006 Toyota Prius for a 2009 Grand Touring I.